ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s Foreign Ministry has firmly reaffirmed its commitmentto respecting Afghanistan’s sovereignty and territorial integrity,explicitly ruling out any intention of pursuing regime change in theneighbouring country. Spokesperson Tahir Andarabi, addressing concernsduring a recent press conference, emphasised that the choice of governmentlies solely with the Afghan people. He stated that Islamabad is prepared toengage constructively with the current administration in Kabul,underscoring a policy of non-interference in internal affairs.
This declaration comes against the backdrop of persistent securitychallenges, including allegations of cross-border militant activities.Andarabi highlighted that Pakistan awaits formal assurances from theIslamic Emirate regarding the prevention of Afghan soil being used forattacks against Pakistan. The closure of key trade crossings, such asTorkham and Chaman, remains tied to these unresolved security issues,impacting bilateral trade and humanitarian movement.
Historical tensions escalated notably in October 2025, when Pakistaniforces conducted targeted operations inside Afghanistan, responding to asurge in attacks attributed to the Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP). Reportsindicate that these actions followed a series of deadly incidents,including ambushes on Pakistani security personnel, resulting insignificant casualties on both sides.
Data from monitoring groups reveal over 600 TTP-linked attacks in Pakistanduring 2025, marking the highest in a decade and contributing to thousandsof fatalities since the Taliban’s return to power in 2021. Pakistaniofficials maintain that TTP sanctuaries in Afghanistan facilitate theseoperations, a claim consistently denied by Kabul.
The border closures initiated post-escalation have disrupted commerce,stranding hundreds of vehicles and causing substantial economic losses.Since the shutdown, approximately 306 Pakistani nationals, includingstudents, have repatriated via air routes, illustrating the humanitarianramifications of the standoff.
Andarabi criticised the application of the term “regime change” tobilateral relations, deeming it inappropriate for neighbouring states. Hereiterated Pakistan’s preference for dialogue and cooperation to fosterregional stability, while safeguarding national security interests.
Analyses from regional experts suggest that unresolved grievances over theDurand Line and differing perceptions of militant threats continue tostrain ties. Despite periodic ceasefires mediated by third parties,including Qatar and Turkey, underlying issues persist without comprehensiveresolution.
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Pakistan’s stance aligns with broader diplomatic efforts to maintainengagement with Kabul, even as security imperatives drive defensivemeasures. The Foreign Ministry’s position reflects a balanced approach,prioritising sovereignty mutual respect alongside demands for actionablecountermeasures against terrorism.
Ongoing developments underscore the complexity of Pak-Afghan relations,where security cooperation remains pivotal for peace. Islamabad’s explicitdisavowal of interference aims to de-escalate rhetoric, potentially pavingthe way for renewed dialogue on shared challenges.
Source:https://www.ariananews.af/pakistan-says-it-respects-afghanistans-sovereignty-rules-out-regime-change/
Tags: Pakistan, Afghanistan, Taliban, TTP, Durand Line, Islamic Emirate
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